Former Town midfielder Devann Yao is on trial with West Ham and scored a goal as a Hammers XI lost 4-2 to League Two Burton Albion at the Pirelli Stadium this afternoon. The American was released by Town at the end of the season.

The 20-year-old wideman netted his goal just before half-time, curling the ball into the net from 16 yards.

The New Yorker, who was previously with Metz, Pisa, Livorno and St Mirren, spent a long spell on trial with the Blues late last year, winning himself a contract until the end of the season. However, the Yao failed to impress in Town’s reserves and was let go in May without making a senior appearance.

Can someone tell me why Ipswich paid compensation to Metz, Pisa, Livorno and St. Mirren in order to sign Yao, finally agreeing it all after he had been with us some time, only then not to play him? He didn't even make a substitute appearance. I'm surprised we couldn't decide how good he was between November and February before paying out the money.

there are many other instances where the club paid handsome money to other clubs for average/below-average players too, only ME/RK can answer why...... unfortunately they have taken the supporters for a ride all this while..... the club's money and man-management skills are a complete disaster......

I think a player only recently released by Town on trial at a Premier League club is relevant.

Mark

Not sure Town actually paid any money to those clubs, I think it was more about going through the correct process to make sure they didn't hassle us for cash when we signed him on as there are FIFA rules. We probably agreed something along the lines of them getting part of any future fee had he been sold on.

For the record, I didn't think he was up to a place in the reserves, let alone the first team. Very raw, surprisingly so for someone who had been in club academies since he was about 13.